The Cardboard Kingdom, Book 1

What a fantastic read that celebrates diversity and acceptance. Yeah, you'll probably have to have a conversation about Jack's character but that is a part of being a parent. The author did not have an "agenda" as others have mentioned. There are children in the world that struggle with expressing their true identity. What a great message to teach your children to accept others for who they are no matter how they dress or what look like even if you personally do not agree with how they express themselves.

This book encourages kids to use their imaginations, work together and listen and talk to each other and their parents. In my opinion, it is appropriate for an age younger than 9. I'd say 6 or 7. The book challenges gender roles and "hints" at a boy being different (interpreted gay or trans). There is one story where the parents are fighting and the reader guesses, are getting divorced. There is a bully. And there are a few words here and there. Honestly, these are concepts kids much younger than 9 are already dealing with and trying to understand. This book deals with all of them gently and positively. Every story is wrapped up in the end and the kids come out smarter, stronger and more compassionate. Most of the movies kids are allowed to watch at young ages introduce much more complicated and damaging content and violence than anything in this book. Let your kids read it, read it with them and what they will remember most is the creative fantasy world created by these awesome characters.